How to Investigate Tathāgatagarbha

Question: The function of the Tathagatagarbha is omnipresent. It is precisely because of this omnipresence that one finds no starting point. How is the Tathagatagarbha to be sought? By what means?

Answer: One must first cultivate sufficient concentration before undertaking the investigation; otherwise, there will be predominantly intellectual understanding. If there is only intellectual understanding, one cannot observe the functioning of the Tathagatagarbha, nor can one know precisely how the Tathagatagarbha gives rise to the five aggregates. Wisdom thus cannot grow, for only genuine realization corresponds to the Tathagatagarbha. If concentration is insufficient, one should temporarily refrain from engaging in Chan meditation.

After severing the view of self, it becomes easy to realize the Tathagatagarbha. When the functions and activities of the five aggregates are entirely negated, the function of the Tathagatagarbha manifests. If one still regards the functions of the five aggregates as real, the function of the Tathagatagarbha remains imperceptible, making its realization difficult. When merit, concentration, and wisdom are fully perfected, and the practice of the six paramitas of a Bodhisattva is accomplished, one can attain realization through Chan meditation and investigating koans. At that point, the starting place will be found.